The Odyssey by Homer is one of the most important early works of literature in western civilization, the heritage that animated European culture from ancient times through the present. There are several factors that make this an important resource for us to consider:
First, This is one of the earliest stories written down. For most of human history, writing did not exist. Stories, of course, did exist and were passed from generation to generation by word of mouth.
Second, the Odyssey not only has all the elements of full-fledged literary fiction but also shows nuance and sophistication that indicates that earlier storytellers had reached an advanced level of literary achievement.
Third, and most relevant to us, the story was sung, making it the first recorded story song
Fourth, the mythic nature of the Odyssey makes it resonant to almost all other stories. During the course ot the semester, you'll find yourself recognizing situations and themes from the Odyssey again and again.
Among other literary characteristics, many have noted that conventions and fashions have changed since the time of Homer. Homer was given, for example to describing the menus of the many Odyssey feasts in great, loving detail, detail that modern readers find tedious. I have, therefore, showed my great compassion for student suffering by following Elmore James advice and eliminating the parts that people don't read anyway. here us the assignment:
The Odyssey by Homer is one of the most important early works of literature in western civilization, the heritage that animated European culture from ancient times through the present. There are several factors that make this an important resource for us to consider:
First, This is one of the earliest stories written down. For most of human history, writing did not exist. Stories, of course, did exist and were passed from generation to generation by word of mouth.
Second, the Odyssey not only has all the elements of full-fledged literary fiction but also shows nuance and sophistication that indicates that earlier storytellers had reached an advanced level of literary achievement.
Third, and most relevant to us, the story was sung, making it the first recorded story song
Fourth, the mythic nature of the Odyssey makes it resonant to almost all other stories. During the course ot the semester, you'll find yourself recognizing situations and themes from the Odyssey again and again.
Among other literary characteristics, many have noted that conventions and fashions have changed since the time of Homer. Homer was given, for example to describing the menus of the many Odyssey feasts in great, loving detail, detail that modern readers find tedious. I have, therefore, showed my great compassion for student suffering by following Elmore James advice and eliminating the parts that people don't read anyway. here us the assignment:
Books 1,5,9-13,16, 19, 22,24 (213 page total).